Tag: workflow

These instructions are written for InDesign users and people working with graphic designers, but could be applied to other applications and fields as well.

Although images cannot carry actual alternative (ALT) text around with them, you can add the ALT text to the metadata of an image to use as you please. This aids in efficiency and reduces chance of error when applying ALT text to images.

This post covers two methods for collaborating with your client/communications on applying image metadata:

Open the folder where your images are kept (ex: Pictures folder in Windows)

Right click the image

Select “Properties” from the drop-down menu.

Click the “Details” tab.

Paste your ALT text into the “Title” input field of the photo

Click OK (this will save the metadata)

Send the photos with the metadata to your Designer/Design Request. Inform your designer that you have put the ALT text in the Title/Description field of the photo’s metadata.

Note: Instructions above written for Windows 7 users.

Faster Alternative: Adobe Bridge

If your client has an Adobe Creative Suite license, they can do these steps faster in Adobe Bridge, where they would put the ALT text in the Description OR Headline field of the image metadata.

Designer:

Below are instructions on 3 different methods to apply image metadata to your images as ALT Text within InDesign: using a script, doing in manually, or using Object Styles. Choose the one that works best for you:

Applying ALT text with a script

Confirm you are using the photos with the metadata (can double check by opening in Adobe Bridge – text will likely be in the Description field)